Google has officially begun rolling out the Android 16 QPR2 update for supported Pixel devices, bringing a wide range of new features, enhancements, and critical bug fixes.
The release also includes the December Android security patch, ensuring better device protection and stability for Pixel users.
One of the most notable additions is the introduction of AI-powered notification summaries, which condense long messages and group chat content directly within the notification shade. This feature helps users stay informed without needing to open each conversation. Android 16 QPR2 also organizes notifications based on priority, making it easier to manage alerts throughout the day.
Enhanced Customization and Dark Mode Upgrades
Google is expanding its customization tools with this update. Users can now enjoy more personalized home screens thanks to custom icon shapes, improved themed icons, and an Expanded Dark Mode that can automatically dim apps that do not support dark mode natively. This makes for a more consistent visual experience across the system.
A new low-light mode for Screen Savers can automatically dim the clock based on ambient lighting, ensuring comfortable nighttime viewing. Additionally, an Enhanced HDR Brightness toggle has been added under Display settings, giving users more control over HDR intensity.
New Parental Controls and Accessibility Tools
Android 16 QPR2 improves digital wellbeing with upgraded parental controls, now secured with a PIN. Parents can manage screen time, set downtime schedules, and limit app usage through built-in timers.
The update also introduces Expressive Options, a feature that provides real-time captions with emotion and sound tags for video messages, live streams, and social media stories. Google has also added new Emoji Kitchen sticker combinations in Gboard.
Productivity and Communication Improvements
A new Call Reason feature will soon allow callers to tag a call as urgent, helping recipients respond more quickly. Users can now leave or report group chats with fewer taps and use Circle to Search to scan messages for potential scams.
The update also brings Pinned Tabs to the Chrome browser, improving multitasking and navigation efficiency.
The Android 16 QPR2 update is being rolled out gradually to Pixel 6 and newer devices, with more devices set to receive it in the coming days.